You don’t have to be a hardcore
survivalist to benefit from putting together a survival
kit. Anyone could wind up facing an emergency and, if it ever happens to
you, you’ll be glad you were prepared. Having a survival kit prepared and ready
at all times can work wonders for your peace of mind as well.

What you should add to your kit depends largely on how you
plan on using it. Start with the following basic essentials and continue to
build your kit from there. You can always add more items down the line to make
your kit an even better fit for your needs.

1.Matches
or Lighters

In case of
emergency, you’ll definitely want a reliable way to start a fire. A fire
doesn’t just keep you warm. It also keeps predators away, as well as helps you
cook your food, boil water, or sterilize tools for first aid purposes. Add
several lighters and perhaps some tinder
for building a fire to your kit. Matches are good picks, as well. Just make
sure they’re waterproof “strike anywhere” matches that will be viable no matter
the circumstances.

2.Knife
or Multi-Tool

Every emergency kit should contain a knife or other
cutting tool. Many people prefer the portability and utility of a standard
pocket-knife. Multi-tools are also good choices, so long as one of the tools
involved is a cutting implement of some type. If you go for a fixed blade
knife, make sure it has a sheath for safety’s sake.

3.Navigation
Tools

While GPS devices are certainly convenient, you don’t want
to rely on having access to a working one in case of emergency. Include maps in
your kit—topographical maps for off-road use, as well as standard road maps.
Learn how to read them properly if you don’t know already. You’ll also want to
include a compass to help you get your bearings.

4.Flashlight

You’ll need a reliable source of light on hand as well. Go
for an LED option that is bright,
durable, and power efficient. Also
include plenty of extra batteries. You might want to consider adding a headlamp
in addition to a traditional flashlight. You’ll be glad you have it if you need
a hands-free alternative.

5.Rope
or Paracord

Rope and cord can be used for anything from building a
lean-to shelter to serving as a tourniquet in case of injury. Make sure you
have at least 10-20 feet of it in
each of your emergency kits. If space permits,
include even more than that.

6.First
Aid Supplies

You’ll definitely want to include at least the basics in
regards to first aid items. Examples include bandages, gauze, disinfectant, and
tape. Over-the-counter medications like aspirin or ibuprofen are also a good
idea, as are extra supplies of any prescription medications you require.

7.Emergency
Water Supplies

If you can stockpile clean water as part of your emergency
plan, that’s great. However, you’ll also want to be prepared for situations
where safe, potable water is scarce or non-existent. Make sure your survival
kit includes a portable
water filter, as well as plenty of purifying
tablets. Together, they can make almost any water safe to drink. Additional
items like stainless steel water containers are also good picks. They not only
carry water but make it possible to boil
water from questionable sources in a pinch as well.

8.Emergency
Food Supplies

Although it’s not as critical as having enough water to
drink, you’ll want to make sure you have emergency food supplies stashed in
your kit as well. What you should include depends on the purpose of your kit. However,
non-perishable, calorie-dense options are always a good idea. Examples include
nuts, energy bars, granola, and so forth. You can also consider self-contained
options like MREs (“meal
ready to eat”).

9.Extra
Clothing

When selecting clothing for emergency purposes, focus on
seasonal extremes. (Think jackets, gloves, hats, or sweatshirts.) Hypothermia
is a very real risk in areas where temps drop drastically at night, even during
the warmer summer months. Additional options like Mylar emergency blankets are
also smart choices, as they can be used not only for warmth but to help create shelter if need be.

Once you have the basics in place, you can customize your
kit according to your needs or any specific purposes for which you hope to use
it. Get started today! You’ll be glad you did if an emergency ever does find
you.